Chelsea reject third offer from Barcelona for Willian

Barcelona have reportedly failed in their latest attempt to sign Willian from Chelsea after having a third offer rejected by the Premier League side.

The Catalan giants are believed to have tabled an improved bid in excess of £55m last week, which the Blues have now knocked back.

Sky Sports News suggests that Chelsea are standing firm, potentially opening the door for rivals Manchester United to make a move.

Speaking after his side’s 1-0 win over Perth Glory on Monday afternoon, new boss Maurizio Sarri said that, while he was “confident” of the Brazil international staying at Stamford Bridge, the final say was ultimately out of his hands.

Willian grew frustrated under ex-manager Antonio Conte last season, but he still managed a combined 15 goals in 25 Premier League and FA Cup starts.